List of best museums in Doha – Must-visit museums for the history and art enthusiast

This is one of the most recognized museums and is popular among many tourists. the building in itself speaks of the very cultural essence of Qatar and was designed by the very same architect who designed the Louvre Pyramid of Fame, I.M Pei. Inside the museum is one of the country's most prized collections of art from across the world. Artwork and masterpieces from as far as China, Spain and India can be seen carefully displayed here. As you arrive here, you will see the massive dome which is a wonderful sight to behold. Begin your tour of the museum on the 1st and 2nd levels where the permanent exhibits have been displayed. This collection consists of pottery, textiles and glasswork. Entrance here is completely free.

Located about 40 minutes away from Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli, this museum is slightly away from Qatar. It shelters the personal collection of one of the most famous businessmen in Doha, Sheik Faisal. The oldest piece of his collection goes back to the Jurassic Era and from there begins the millennial items that come right up to the 21st century. Rare coins, prehistoric figurines, Islamic manuscripts, 600 vintage cars and colourful textiles which include more than 700 carpets too. There are 15 halls full of these exotic exhibits and if you want to see them, you will have to pay a small fee to enter.

If you are curious about what the local art is like then the place that can feed your curiosity would be the Mathaf which means museum in Arabic. Here you will find pieces of art that have been worked on by local artists as well as those from countries like Iran, Indian and Turkey. The collection is housed in a building that was once a school. On the first floor, you will come across art that has been themed for family, society, history and horoufiyah (Arabic calligraphy).

This museum is one that holds collections inside 4 old restored houses. The whole idea of this museum is to showcase what life was really like in the past in Doha. Company House, Bin Jelmood House, Radwani House and Mohammed Bin Jassim House all offer different perspectives of Qatari life. The perspectives go from family roles to the history of oil in the area. The Bin Jelmood House, however, is sure to make a bigger impression as it focuses on slavery in the period where pearl diving and oil industries began.

Easily reachable from the best hotels in Qatar, this was once the local fire station (thus the name) that has been converted into the local community art centre. This has opened up an avenue for local artists to get their work out into the open. The place is appreciated by both foreigners and locals.